Human Resources Strategy for Researchers (HRS4R)

Human Resources Strategy for Researchers (HRS4R) at the University of Tübingen

In 2005, the European Commission published the European Charter for Researchers and the Code of Conduct for the Recruitment of Researchers (C&C). The member states were advised to implement the recommendations found in both documents. The aim of C&C is to create an open European labor market for researchers with common standards concerning rights and obligations for researchers and their employers. The University of Tübingen fully endorses the European Charter for Researchers and the Code of Conduct for the Recruitment of Researchers and has informed the European Commission about their endorsement in an official letter in October 2016. Many of the C&C recommendations have already been put into practice at the University of Tübingen. In order to further implement the recommendations, the University of Tübingen has joined the “Human Resources Strategy for Researchers” initiative (HRS4R) of the European Commission. The first step in the HRS4R process is an internal analysis of the current state of implementation of the C&C recommendations. The internal analysis was carried out at the University of Tübingen from June to September 2016 and involved the Vice-President for Research, representatives of the Faculties, of the central services, of the HR Department, and of the Staff Council. It was coordinated by the Graduate Academy. Researchers of different career stages were also involved in the process. Representatives of the Doctoral Conventions, of the Postdocs as well as Junior Research Group Leaders and Junior Professors were invited to participate in information and discussion meetings and had the opportunity to share their views on the state of implementation of the C&C principles.

As a second step in the HRS4R process, an action plan was developed based on the internal analysis. It will ensure further implementation of the C&C principles. The action plan was adopted by the President’s Office in October 2016. The University of Tübingen was awarded the HR Excellence in Research Logo in December 2017. By awarding the logo, the European Commission acknowledges that the University of Tübingen complies with international standards in HR development for researchers and is committed to fostering an excellent working environment.

Actions are grouped into four main areas:

Ethical and professional aspects such as research freedom, equal opportunities and good scientific practice

Recruitment

Working conditions and social security

Training and continuous development

Over the next years, the actions will be implemented. The HRS4R process requires a first internal evaluation of the state of implementation after two years.